Evaluation of Haematological Parameters of Uda Ewes Fed Diets Containing Graded Levels of Balsam Apple (Mormodica balsamina) at different Physiological Stage

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of graded levels of Mormodica balsamina (Balsam apple) inclusion in complete diets on the haematology, serum biochemistry, and overall health of Uda ewes at different physiological stages. Sixteen Uda ewes (first parity) and four rams were allocated to four treatments containing 0%, 2.5%, 5%, and 7.5% M. balsamina. Animals were fed ad libitum for 24 weeks, and blood samples were collected before, during, and after pregnancy. Haematological parameters measured included packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), hemoglobin (Hb), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), while serum biochemistry analyses included albumin, globulin, total protein, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, urea, and creatinine. Results showed significant differences (P<0.05) in PCV, MCV, MCHC, WBC, lymphocytes, and basophils, particularly with higher M. balsamina inclusion. Pregnant and postpartum ewes exhibited increased Hb and RBC values, likely due to higher oxygen demand and metabolic requirements during pregnancy and lactation. Serum biochemical analyses indicated significant variations in globulin, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, urea, and creatinine, while albumin, total protein, and glucose remained stable. Overall, the inclusion of up to 7.5% M. balsamina in complete diets did not compromise the haematological and biochemical health of Uda ewes.